Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"The Pulley" is a poem by George Herbert, a 17th-century English poet known for his religious poetry. The poem is a meditation on the nature of God's love and the role of human desire in our lives.

The poem begins with the speaker describing God's creation of humanity. He notes that God has given us everything we need for happiness and fulfillment, but that he has withheld one thing: rest. He sees this as a deliberate choice on God's part, designed to ensure that we will always strive for more, always seeking to fill the void within us.

However, as the poem progresses, the speaker begins to question this choice. He notes that even though we may have everything we need, we are still restless and dissatisfied, always seeking more. He sees this as a reflection of our innate desire for God, a desire that can never be fully satisfied by anything else.

Throughout the poem, Herbert uses vivid imagery and language to convey the speaker's inner turmoil and struggle. He uses metaphors like "pulley" and "rest" to represent the tension between human desire and God's love, emphasizing the importance of finding a balance between the two.

In addition, Herbert also uses the poem to reflect on the nature of God's love and grace. He notes that even though we may never find true rest or satisfaction in this life, God's love and grace are always present, ready to offer forgiveness and redemption. He sees this as a source of hope and comfort, reminding his readers that no matter how lost or confused they may feel, God's love and grace are always there to guide and comfort them.

In conclusion, "The Pulley" is a powerful and moving poem that explores the tension between human desire and God's love. Through vivid imagery and language, Herbert creates a sense of inner turmoil and conflict, while also emphasizing the importance of finding a balance between our desires and God's love. 

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...